Introduction

Undoubtedly one of Goa’s most popular museums, the Archaeological Museum & Portrait Gallery is housed in the abandoned convent of St. Francis of Assisi, adjacent to Se Cathedral in Old Goa. Set up in 1964 and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the collection at the museum is displayed in eight galleries which include antiques, coins, ceramics, bronze statues, photographs, paintings and sculptures from the prehistoric to the late medieval period. Most popular of the lot are the sculptures of Hindu deities such as the Uma Mahesh sculpture. The range of coins is also as impressive - pan through some of the oldest coins from Hindu, Muslim and Portuguese rule. Take a look at the photo display on the ground floor of the famous prehistoric rock carvings at Usgalimal. Don’t miss out the portraits of the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama and Alfonso Albuquerque.

The portraits of the Portuguese governors displayed on the first floor makes an interesting study in the evolution of court dresses. Tickle your architectural bone by browsing the architectural pieces, the lintel of a temple depicting various types of Shikharas, sati-stones, hero-stones and an engraved slab of Kannada inscription among other intriguing exhibits.

You can club your visit to the museum with a tour of the churches in Old Goa. The museum is a treasure trove of Goan history, and you are recommended to keep at least a few hours in hand to explore it.

Special Attributes

The museum has an interesting collection of coins, portraits and sculptures from the prehistoric to the late medieval period.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Hire a private taxi or motorcycle

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers, Senior Citizens

Exposure

You will be indoors

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

The museum is a treasure trove of Goan history.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

View the exhibits from a distance.

Type of site

Archaeological museum